Learn how to season and clean your soapstone cookware
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Seasoning Your Soapstone Cookware
Many people don’t know that a new soapstone pot needs to go through a sort of preparation before being used for the first time.
This is called “seasoning”, and it ensures that your pot will be cleaner and more durable. But how can you safely do this technique and have your cookware ready to use?
That’s exactly what you’ll discover in this blog post. In this guide, we’ll show you how to unlock the full potential of your unique soapstone cookware with a simple step-by-step seasoning process. Keep reading!
What Does Seasoning the Cookware Mean?
Seasoning your soapstone cookware is all about unlocking its full potential and getting it ready for safe, delicious cooking.
This essential process not only ensures your cookware will last for generations, but also enhances its natural beauty and performance.
It helps close the pores of the stone, boosts its natural nonstick properties, and preserves the unique flavors and minerals that make soapstone cookware so special. With the right seasoning, you’ll enjoy more durable, healthier, and flavorful cooking experiences for years to come.
How to Season Your Soapstone Cookware
All you’ll need to season your soapstone cookware is a bit of oil, olive oil, or pork lard.
Generally, vegetable oil is the most common choice, since it’s easy to find and you probably already have it at home.
You’ll also need a little water and a paper towel to coat the utensil.
One more thing: you might notice a slight change in the color of the pot after the process. It’s normal for it to darken a bit — that’s a sign everything went well!
Here’s a step-by-step guide you can do at home:
- Using the paper towel, spread oil all over the cookware, both inside and out. Don’t forget to coat the lid too, if it has one made of stone.
- Next, let the pot sit for 30 minutes.
- After that, it’s time to put it in the oven. Fill it halfway with water and place it in a preheated oven at 180º C (350º F) for 30 minutes.
- When the time is up, turn off the oven and let the pot cool down completely inside the oven.
- Once it’s fully cooled, remove the mixture and wash the cookware with water, a sponge, and soap or dish detergent.
- Repeat the seasoning process three more times. You can do this all in one day or on different days. After these steps, your soapstone cookware will be ready to use in your kitchen.
Important Tips:
- Always start cooking with low heat and gradually increase it.
- Foods cooked in soapstone pots should be at room temperature, and if you’re using water in the recipe, try to use hot water.
- In the first month of use, avoid using your soapstone pot for frying.
- For all soapstone items, avoid sudden temperature changes — for example, don’t take a very hot item and place it on a cold or wet surface.
How to Clean Soapstone Cookware
One great tip to keep your cookware lasting longer is to wash it only when it’s completely cool. That way, you avoid thermal shock, which can crack the cookware.
You don’t need to use harsh cleaning products or steel wool pads.
The yellow (soft) side of a sponge with mild soap and running water is ideal for cleaning your soapstone pot.
Other Golden Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Cookware:
- Start cooking on low heat.
- Don’t use soapstone cookware on induction stoves.
- Use sturdy utensils to prepare your food.
Advantages of Seasoning and Using Soapstone Cookware
Steatite, a type of rock common in Minas Gerais, Brazil, is the base for making soapstone cookware.
In fact, these pots are considered healthy, as the stone releases small amounts of minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, and manganese during cooking.
Additionally, soapstone cookware is excellent at preserving the temperature and flavor of food.
Without seasoning, toxic residues like nickel can be released, which is harmful to your health. That’s why seasoning before first use is so important.
Did you enjoy learning how to season your soapstone cookware? Discover our authentic soapstone cookware and bring a special touch to your dishes!